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Old 27th Jun 2017, 04:26
  #44 (permalink)  
underfire
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
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Even the touted 28V dc to USB charger (BTW does look like a useful device, especially for small aircraft) is not 'certified' for cockpit use, from their data sheet:
That is because of the myriad of systems, each carrier must get approval based on their aircraft and equipage.
From the FAA: Authorization for the use of Apple and Microsoft COTS PED's as an EFB are obtained by the operators, rather than the manufacturer.

The engineering department must provide to the regulators, the testing results. Therefore, there is no 'list' where you can just get what is on the list. Its all custom approved. Devices such as the iPad and others, have been through the testing for the device, such as the pressure test, pressure drop tests, and a whole list of other requirements. That does not mean you can simply begin using one on the flightdeck. It must be certified for use on that aircraft, with that equipage. I have seen systems that the charging cable itself cannot be used, and a special one is provided, due to interference.

(BTW does look like a useful device, especially for small aircraft)
This is not meant for small aircraft, notice the plug. Looking at the chargers for smaller ac, notice that while the Apple charger is $20, a properly shielded and approved unit is $350?

One last comment is that much of the discussion centered on questioning unsupported claims such 400Hz power reducing battery life and similar, not legality which is a different thing altogether.
Sorry, but that is supported, with quite a bit of experience on the issue and with Apple themselves. Do YOU have any evidence to refute the claim?

With the exception of some Apple chargers that are tested at 400Hz most certs will typically be for 100-240V 50/60Hz so use of chargers on 400Hz is outside the certified range, even though they will work just fine.
Not true, sorry. The largest airline in the US is converting for good reason. From the FAA on the Apple charger
Other: The Type A (flat parallel-blade design) Apple 5W as well as the 10W and 12W USB power adapters (with Type A AC plug attached) comply with the IEC/UL 60950-1 standard for use with power sources rated to provide 115V AC at 400Hz. Type A plug only, and Comply is the operative word.


In other words a system approach is needed to ensure compatibility and safety for cockpit use.
There is one, ask the carriers that have them. Again, according to the FAAFBs employing rechargeable lithium batteries must ensure the lithium ion batteries meet airworthiness standards appropriate for the battery size and intended function. The use of rechargeable lithium batteries in portable devices is the responsibility of the operator (see AC 120-76 for applicable guidance).
The engineering, cert and validation process to put an EFB on the flight deck is significant, and the conditions of use should be adhered to.

EFB that are connected to the IFE wifi are a particular problem as well. The wifi even though connected, maintains a search mode as part of the connection, and uses a significant amount of power.

Last edited by underfire; 27th Jun 2017 at 05:40.
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